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New Ram Car Models

Ram is currently a subdivision of Chrysler, which is mainly dedicated to producing full-size pickup trucks. Prior to this, the Ram models were available under the Dodge name, where it achieved near iconic status for decades.

In 2009, Ram was established as a separate brand division apart from the other Dodge models. After Fiat took partial control of Chrysler and implemented a company-wide reorganization, it was deemed that Dodge should cultivate a brand identity that would attract a younger demographic. This meant no pickup trucks, which allowed Ram to break away into a league of its own.

In addition to preserving Dodge's brand identity, rebranding the trucks as Ram was done in an effort to raise consumer awareness of the heavy-duty trucks for which the company was best known.

Ram Through The Years

Although Ram is one of the youngest companies in the U.S. automotive market, American truck buyers have a long history with Ram through its parent company, Dodge. The first Dodge Ram pickup trucks were produced in 1981. Prior to that time, the trucks inclined to have more utilitarian names like the D150: "D" indicating drive train and "150" indicating the truck size and load capacity.

American drivers long appreciated the versatility of Dodge Ram trucks, which can be used for work or play. Dodge Ram trucks were available in standard or extended cab style, and had the option of an inline-6, V-8, or turbo-diesel.

In 1994, Ram underwent a major redesign that helped boost the brand's popularity with American drivers. At this point, the trucks were outfitted with the big-rig styled grilles and flared fenders that we have come to associate with the brand.

In 2002, Ram trucks underwent another redesign when Dodge began outfitting them with powerful 5.7-liter Hemi V-8 engines. The trucks were also given sharper edges to further increase their big, somewhat chunky masculine style. The success of the trucks with consumers is illustrated by the company's willingness to forge Ram into a full-fledged separate division. This happened at a time when most major U.S. automakers were looking for ways to phase out their subdivisions rather than add new ones.

Ram Models

The Ram 1500 is a full size half-ton pickup available in three different body styles: regular cab, extended cab, and crew cab. The 1500 is also available in three trim levels with engine options that include a 3.7-liter V-6, a 4.7-liter V-8, or a 5.7-liter V-8.

The heavy-duty 2500 is available in 2-wheel or 4-wheel drive and like the 1500, comes in one of the three body styles: regular cab, crew cab, and mega cab, which is essentially a larger version of crew cab.

The Ram 3500 is the biggest, heartiest vehicle in the company's lineup of trucks. Larger and able to haul more than the 1500 or 2500, the Ram 3500 is a tough and durable truck, which also comes in three cab styles. The 3500 is also available with rear-wheel or four-wheel drive.

The Ram C/V Cargo Van is a popular choice with small business owners. The C/V provides all the interior space and functionality of a full-size van with an improved fuel economy of a minivan. The C/V was noted for its strong performance and well-equipped driver's compartment.

The Ram Dakota is a model produced in 2011 but was discontinued due to lack of sales. Powered by a 3.7-liter V-6 or a 4.7-liter V-8, the Dakota was a good option for a midsize truck.

Ram Products and Technologies

Before splitting off as its own brand, Ram was Dodge's most iconic and instantly recognizable full-size pickup truck. Consumers liked the Ram as much as they do now for its durability and versatility. The trucks have long been praised for their powerful engines, array of body styles and smooth highway rides. Since emerging as its own distinct brand, Ram has also made several improvements.

Founded jointly by the Dodge brothers, John and Horace, in 1900, the Dodge Company began its foray into the automotive industry as a supplier of car parts and assemblies for the then-burgeoning Detroit auto boom of the early 20th Century.